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Chicago Bears 2017 NFL Mock Draft: December Update

By Jon Dove

Dec 11, 2016; Detroit, MI, USA; Chicago Bears head coach John Fox looks on during the third quarter against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 11, 2016; Detroit, MI, USA; Chicago Bears head coach John Fox looks on during the third quarter against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 3, 2015; Winston-Salem, NC, USA; Florida State Seminoles offensive lineman Roderick Johnson (77) lines up during the second half against the Wake Forest Demon Deacons at BB&T Field. Florida State defeated Wake Forest 24-16. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 3, 2015; Winston-Salem, NC, USA; Florida State Seminoles offensive lineman Roderick Johnson (77) lines up during the second half against the Wake Forest Demon Deacons at BB&T Field. Florida State defeated Wake Forest 24-16. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports /

3rd Round: Roderick Johnson, OT, Florida State

Many see the Chicago Bears offensive tackle position as a major issue. The argument is that Charles Leno Jr. lacks the potential to stick at left tackle and Bobby Massie is a high-priced problem. Massie has had a tough season, but Leno has shown enough to earn more playing time.

However, Chicago lacks depth at the position and especially someone talented enough to challenge this year’s starters. Florida State’s Roderick Johnson has the physical tools to be a top-flight NFL tackle, but needs some refinement.

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Grabbing someone with Johnson’s athletic profile in the 3rd round is good value. There’s some risk with this pick, but at this point in the draft most prospects come with some issues.

Johnson has the size and fluid movements needed to hold up in space. However, he lacks proper footwork and focus. His tendency to play with a high pad level negatively impacts his balance and exposes his body.

This pick is another that would make sense for the Bears to target secondary help or a quarterback. Texas Tech’s Patrick Mahomes II and Miami’s Brad Kaaya are two quarterback prospects who could be available at this point in the draft.

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